Even with a three-speed automatic, we enjoyed the performance of theSunfire's upgrade 2.4-liter Twin Cam engine. It revs freely, pumps up plenty
of torque and even though it's not as quiet as, say, a Honda four-cylinder,
it's an improvement over the 2.3-liter Quad 4 from which it evolved.
With this engine, the Sunfire comes to play with more horsepower than
a Honda Civic and more torque than a Dodge Neon Sport. It raises the Sunfire's
performance from the realm of acceptable to spirited.
The suspension is composed of MacPherson struts up front and a twist
beam axle in the rear. It's not as sophisticated as many setups in this
class, but gets the job done.
We found the Sunfire's handling to be average in quick maneuvers, stable
at higher speeds and thoroughly predictable. Ride quality is very good
for a car in this class, and firm enough to make the car fun to drive.
This pleasant combination is largely attributable to GM's new-found